West Jefferson My Hometown 2016-17

my WEST JEFFERSON hometown

2016 - 2017

A great place to visit but a better place to live, work and play!

Retail ∙ Entertainment ∙ Restaurants ∙ Events ∙ Important Numbers Utilities ∙ The Chamber of Commerce ∙ Civic Groups and Much More!

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West Jefferson My Hometown

Page 2

August 25, 2016

The timber and the

TRAIN PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL

West Jefferson has changed quite a lot during the last 101 years. From left, Ashe County High School seniors Grace Miller and Amanda Gambill enjoy Italian ice on a new bench in West Jefferson.

A brief history of West Jefferson

BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com

F

rom the perspective of many towns in North Carolina, West Jefferson is relatively new, becoming incorporated in 1915.

At the turn of the 20th century, the land that currently includes West Jefferson was part of a thriving farm community of a few hardworking families, including the Parkers, Fletchers, Hartzogs and Graybeals.

Even though the West Jefferson valley had steep and rugged terrain, the area also featured an important natural resource at the time — timber. With this fact in mind, a decision was made to have a rail line pass through West Jefferson.

According to “Images of West Jefferson,” several visionary men such as Thomas C. “Tam” Bowie, H.C. Tucker and E.A. McNeil would see the potential of West Jefferson, and eventually form the West Jefferson Land Company.

The group would later begin buying property for what they hoped would become a new town. The West Jefferson

Land Company petitioned the North Carolina Legislature, and on Feb. 9, 2015, the legislature granted a charter for West Jefferson.

The first mayor of West Jefferson was Donnelly Blevins, and the original board of aldermen was made up of R.C. Barr, W.F. Hartzog, Isaac Faw and Amos Graybeal.

Norfolk and Western Railway, also known as the “Virginia Creeper,” began making regular trips through West Jefferson in 1915, and the town began growing.

By the mid-1920s, West Jefferson had several budding businesses, mostly housed in brick buildings.

From 1915 through the early 1930s, the Virginia Creeper made daily trips to West Jefferson to haul lumber. However, as the timber supply dried up, the Virginia Creeper made fewer trips through West Jefferson and eventually only ran through town one day per week.

Even though the natural resources of West Jefferson had been depleted, the timber and the train jumpstarted the town’s growth, which continued from the 1930s through the 1950s.

During that pivotal time in the town’s history, modern businesses began taking shape. Modern day businesses such as Parker Tie Co., Dr Pepper Bottling and Badger Funeral Home became very successful.

Like many small towns across the nation, West Jefferson’s economy hit a snag in the 1970s, and the Virginia Creeper would make its last ride through West Jefferson in 1977.

As West Jefferson lost some of its industry in the 1970s and 1980s, the town pivoted once again to become a destination for tourists.

For example, the Christmas in July Festival began in 1987 as a celebration of the Christmas tree industry in Ashe County, drawing tourist traffic to West Jefferson.

Twenty eight years later, in 2015, Ashe County was named the No. 1 Christmas tree producer in the United States.

About the cover:

Also, area artists began pushing the downtown mural project in the 1990s to revitalize the downtown area.

The first mural in Ashe County was commissioned in 1996 by McFarland and Company Inc. Publishers. Local artist Jack Young created the mural “History of Ashe Through the Ages” on the Regency Properties building next to the Ashe Arts Center, opening the door to future mural projects.

In the 2000s, West Jefferson continued its progressive trend by reshaping its downtown area.

The town replaced its traffic lights with four-way stop signs, crosswalks and bump outs to accommodate the needs of pedestrians.

The town has won several Main Street awards during the last few years for its efforts.

As for the future, we’ll have to wait and see what’s next for West Jefferson.

PHOTO BY ERIK HOFFMANN

Old meets new in West Jefferson, where classic cars ride along a modern downtown filled with classic charm.

West Jefferson My Hometown

August 25, 2016

Page 3

Set up a home life in West Jefferson

BY ERIK HOFFMANN erik.hoffmann@mountaintimes.com

P

eaceful communities, friendly people, beautiful landscapes and an eclectic art district — West Jefferson is slowly becoming one of the more desirable locations in North Carolina for families to relocate.

Before settling in, here are a few things to keep in mind while preparing to make West Jefferson home.

BUYING OR BUILDING A HOME Whether you need a studio apartment or a five-bedroom, two-story house, finding the perfect place is simple. Things to take into consideration are price, size and, of course, location. In West Jefferson, there are several real estate professionals, architects and designers ready to help you find your next homesite.

The Ashe County Chamber of Commerce is a great spot to find real estate offices, local homebuilders, contractors and rental companies ready to help. To get an up-todate list of professionals, call the chamber at (336) 846-9550 or (888) 343-2743 or visit its website at www.ashechamber. com.

With a little help from the Internet, future residents can conduct direct real estate searches online by visiting one of several real estate agencies located in West

Jefferson and throughout Ashe County, including www.highcountryrealtync.com, www.ashecountyrealestate.com, www. regencypropertiesnc.com and many more.

Looking to create your perfect home?

Look no further than the Ashe County Homebuilders Association, whose mission is to protect the wellbeing and professionalism of the building industry throughout West Jefferson and Ashe County while striving to provide citizens with quality affordable housing. For more information, visit www.ashehomebuilders.com or call (828) 238-7137.

LOOKING FOR WORK Those looking for a job around West Jefferson might find it a daunting task, especially if you don’t know where to start.

Luckily, there are a couple of starting points to begin with.

The Ashe Mountain Times classified listings feature the latest job openings in print weekly, with new listings added every Thursday. Those listings can also be seen online at www.ashemountaintimes. com.

The Ashe NCWorks Career Center, located at 626 Ashe Central School Road, Unit 5, Jefferson, offers services to help anyone find a job. Services include free computer access, NCWorks Online registration, career guidance, resume preparation, job search assistance, job market

information, training classes, veterans’ services and more. For more information, call (336) 982-5627 or visit www. ncworks.gov.

To people who believe in the old-fashioned, yet tried and true method of doorto-door searches, many West Jefferson businesses post “Help Wanted” signs in their storefront windows.

UTILITIES Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation supplies electricity to the West Jefferson and Ashe County area. Blue Ridge Energies is a subsidiary of the company and offers propane and heating services.

Blue Ridge Electric offices are located at 2375 N.C. Highway 163 in West Jefferson.

For more information about electric services, call (336) 246-7138 or visit www. blueridgeemc.com. For propane and heating services, call (336) 846-2421 or visit www. blueridgeenergies.com.

In the town limits, residents can get water services and schedule trash or brush pick up by contacting the West Jefferson Town Hall. Its hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can be reached by phone at (336) 246-3551.

Telephone and Internet services can be provided through a couple of local companies.

SkyLine Membership Corporation and SkyBest Communications have provided

telephone service for more than 60 years.

Additionally, they offer Internet, cable TV and security services.

SkyLine is located at 1060 Mount Jefferson Road in West Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 246-7138, or visit www.skybest.com.

CenturyLink also provides telephone service for West Jefferson and Ashe County. For more information, call (800) 366-8201 or visit www.centurylink.com.

Cable TV services are also available through Morris Broadband. Their office is located at 360 South Main St. in Jefferson and opened Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call (888) 855-9036, (336) 246-5001 or visit www.morrisbroadband.com.

OTHER INFORMATION Visitors and residents alike can change their voter registration information through the Ashe County Board of Elections. The board office is located in the Ashe County Courthouse at Government Circle in Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 846-5570.

Anyone needing to renew his or her driver’s license can do so at the examiner’s office located at the Law Enforcement Center at 140 Government Circle in Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 246-5001 or for license tag information, call (336) 846-5530.

Important numbers and websites West Jefferson Town Hall West Jefferson Police Department Ashe County Sheriff’s Office Ashe County Communications Ashe County Detention Center West Jefferson Post Office Ashe Memorial Hospital Ashe County Health Dept.

Mountain Family Care Center Ashe County Schools Ashe County High School Ashe County Middle School Blue Ridge Elementary School Mountain View Elementary School Westwood Elementary School Ashe County Early Learning Ctr. Ashe Campus – Wilkes CC Ashe Co. Parks and Rec. Ashe County Public Library Ashe County Animal Control Ashe County Humane Society Animal Hospital of Ashe

(336) 246-3551 (336) 246-9410 (336) 846-5633 (336) 846-5600 (336) 846-5611 (336) 246-2601 (336) 846-7101 (336) 246-7959 (336) 846-6322 (336) 246-7175 (336) 384-2400 (336) 384-3591 (336) 384-4500 (336) 982-4200 (336) 877-2921 (336) 846-3221 (336) 846-3900 (336) 982-6185 (336) 846-2041 (336) 982-4060 (336) 982-4297 (336) 246-3441

www.townofwj.com www.townofwj.com www.ashecountysheriff.com www.ashecountysheriff.com www.ashecountysheriff.com www.usps.com www.ashememorial.org www.apphealth.com www.ashememorial.org www.ashe.k12.nc.us www.ashehigh.ashe.k12.nc.us www.ashemiddle.ashe.k12.nc.us www.blueridge.ashe.k12.nc.us www.mountainview.ashe.k12.nc.us www.westwood.ashe.k12.nc.us www.acelc.ashe.schoolfusion.us www.wilkescc.edu/default_Ashe.aspx www.ashecountyparks.com www.arlibrary.org www.asheanimals.com www.ashehumanesociety.org www.animalhospitalofwilkes.com

Ashe Animal Clinic Ashe Mountain Times AMT – Watauga Office Ashe Chamber of Commerce Blue Ridge Electric SkyLine Telephone CenturyLink Ashe County Board of Elections Emergency Management Ashe County Planning Board Ashe Register of Deeds Ashe Dept. of Social Services Ashe County Landfill Ashe Tax Collector Ashe County Tax Administration Ashe County Tax Mapping E911 Address Coordinator Ashe County Trans. Authority Ashe County Veterans Services Ashe County Building Inspections N.C. Cooperative Extension

(336) 246-2341 (336) 246-6397 (828) 264-6397 (336) 846-9550 (336) 846-7138 (336) 877-1350 (336) 246-0100 (336) 846-5570 (336) 846-5521 (336) 846-5528 (336) 846-5580 (336) 846-5700 (336) 982-2527 (336) 846-5554 (336) 846-5554 (336) 846-5555 (336) 846-5520 (336) 846-2000 (336) 846-5575 (336) 846-5511 (336) 846-5850

no website listed www.ashemountaintimes.com www.mountaintimes.com www.ashechamber.com www.blueridgeemc.com www.skyline.org www.centurylink.com www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.actatravel.com www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashecountygov.com/departments www.ashe.ces.ncsu.edu

West Jefferson My Hometown

Page 4

August 25, 2016

OUTDOORS or INDOORS:

Things to do when away from home

BY ERIK HOFFMANN erik.hoffmann@mountaintimes.com

W

hether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city or you’re just looking for a change of scenery for a few days, West Jefferson has lots to offer anyone looking for something to do.

For nature lovers, Mount Jefferson State Natural Area is a must-stop and-see for anyone who has the hiking bug.

Reaching more than 1,600 feet above the region, Mount Jefferson is considered a national landmark exploding with history, including tales of its involvement

in the Underground Railroad during the Civil War. Mount Jefferson boasts five hiking trails highlighting rare geology and plant life. There’s even a child friendly TRACK trail for younger explorers. Overlooks show not only neighboring towns, but Virginia and Tennessee as well. Picnic grounds with shelters complete this outdoor marvel.

Anyone with a fear of heights might be a bit more comfortable enjoying the outdoors at Bowie-Seagraves Municipal Park, located behind the Ashe County Public Library.

The park offers tennis courts, a base-

Offering reasonable insurance rates to Ashe County ... then!

ball field, a basketball court, a large playground, swings, a jumbo slide and more. There is also a lighted walking trail around the park.

If you’re looking to host a party or big event, the park has two large picnic shelter rentals. Each shelter comes complete with grills, tables and restrooms.

To make a reservation, call West Jefferson Town hall at (336) 246-3551.

Occasionally, the weather does not cooperate with outdoor adventures. Not to worry. West Jefferson still has you covered.

On the southside of West Jefferson is Skate Zone, a family operated nonprofit

organization that provides a safe alternative for children young and old throughout West Jefferson and surrounding areas.

Once inside, you’ll be overwhelmed with air hockey, billiards, arcade games, a concession stand, free Wi-Fi and, of course, skating. Larger groups and parties may take advantage of the new bounce zone and new laser zone.

Skate Zone is located at 498 Beaver Creek School Road. For more information, call (336) 246-3232 or (336) 8463232.

THINGS TO DO – Continued on Page 5

Public Transportation Ashe County Transportation

Serving Ashe County for 30 Years!

........................

Offering reasonable insurance rates to Ashe County ... now!

Ashe County Transportation Authority provides daily transportation services to all citizens of Ashe County. Our services assists individuals with transportation access to medical and health resources, airports, shopping facilities, education, recreational, and employment and training opportunities.

Services provided are deviated fixed route transportation between Jefferson and West Jefferson, demand response service, and airport shuttle service.

Our fleet of vehicles is comprised of mini vans, SUV’s, and LTV vans that are handicap accessible.

MILLER INSURANCE AGENCY Serving Ashe County for over 50 years!

107 S Jefferson Ave • Po Box 390 • West Jefferson, NC 28694 336-246-7151 www.miainsure.com

To schedule your appointment, give us a call by 2:00 pm the business day prior to your appointment.

Phone: 336-846-2000 * TDD: (800) 735-2962 * Fax: 336-846-8579 Deviated Fixed Route: 336-977-2595 E-mail: info@actatravel.com * www.actatravels.com 895 Ray Taylor Road, PO Box 1836, West Jefferson, NC 28694

West Jefferson My Hometown

August 25, 2016

THINGS TO DO FROM PAGE 4 For a slower pace, West Jefferson is

home to the Parkway Theater for movie fans of all ages. Two large screens and a concession stand filled with traditional movie treats, the Parkway Theater provides the red carpet for your movie-going

experience.

For more information about the Parkway Theater or to get a sneak peak at what is on the marquee, visit www.parkwaytheater.net or call (336) 846-3281.

Page 5 For more information about entertainment options in West Jefferson, visit the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce at www.ashechamber.com or call (336) 846-9550.

PHOTO BY ERIK HOFFMANN

The view of West Jefferson from atop Mount Jefferson is breathtaking. Hikers can also catch glimpses of Virginia and Tennessee on clear days.

Good eats: FEASTING IN WEST JEFFERSON

BY ERIK HOFFMANN erik.hoffmann@mountaintimes.com

N

orth Carolina is primarily known for some of the best barbecue in the world.

However, West Jefferson has more than just tasty pork to satisfy your taste buds. With a wide array of restaurants to choose from, West Jefferson offers everything from Carolina-style barbecue to American-style hamburgers to savory baked goodies to international cuisine.

For a taste of worldly flavor, West Jefferson’s international eateries offer a variety of choices.

Shokudo Japanese Seafood and Osaka both offer an Asian bill of fare with menu items inspired from the Far East. A little closer to home, Monte de Rey has a wide variety of spicy Mexican favorites and a friendly staff. For something with a little extra flare, The Havana Café serves the finest Cuban dishes with a touch of mountain hospitality.

Not feeling adventurous at mealtime? No worry. West Jefferson has some of the best places to order up a hamburger or club sandwich with all the sides and fixings you could handle.

Black Jack’s Pub and Grill and Boondocks Brewing Tap Room and Restaurant have some of the tastiest hamburgers in town. The Hotel Tavern offers a classic menu filled with monster steaks, succulent seafood, savory pasta and much more. For that true mountain feel, The Hillbilly Grill is the must-stop at eatery serving up a traditional diner menu and service that makes you feel right at home.

Sweet and Savory Bakery and Deli and Rosebud Bakery serve up the tastiest baked goods around, both offering affordable prices and great menus.

What North Carolina town would be complete without traditional North Carolina barbecue? Smoky Mountain Barbecue and When Pigs Fly BBQ and Wings have chicken, beef and, of course, pork dishes, complete with Southern favorites such as coleslaw, potatoes, beans and more.

No matter what you’re hungry for, the restaurants throughout West Jefferson have got you covered.

BLACK JACK’S PUB & GRILL 18 N. Jefferson Avenue West Jefferson (336) 246-3295

MCDONALD’S 11 Ashemont Dr. West Jefferson (336)246-3061

BOHEMIA 5 N. Jefferson Ave West Jefferson (336) 846-1498

MONTE D REY 1447 C. Mt. Jefferson Rd. West Jefferson (336) 846-2100

BOONDOCKS BREWING TAP ROOM & RESTAURANT 108 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 246-5222

MOUNTAIN AIRE SEAFOOD AND STEAKS 9930 Highway 16 S. West Jefferson (336) 982-3060

COFFEE SHOP & WAFFLE HOUSE 21 Beaver Creek School Rd. West Jefferson (336) 246-2345

PARK VISTA INN AND RESTAURANT 1907 Park Vista Road West Jefferson (336) 877-5200

HAVANA CAFÉ 109 Backstreet West Jefferson (336) 846-2800 HILLBILLY GRILL 601 S. Jefferson Avenue West Jefferson (336) 846-4745 HOTEL TAVERN 5 West Main St. West Jefferson (336) 846-2121 LOUISE’S SWEET T CAFÉ 423 E. Second St. West Jefferson (336) 246-9990

THE LOG HOUSE AT SMITHEY’S CAFE 117 Backstreet West Jefferson (336) 846-7737 SMOKY MOUNTAIN BARBECUE 1008 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 246-6818 SWEET & SAVORY BAKERY & DELI 6 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-8888 VILLAGE INN PIZZA 423 U.S. Highway 221 S. Bus. West Jefferson (336) 846-2200

OSAKA 1400 Mt. Jefferson Rd. No. 5 West Jefferson (336) 246-3300

WENDY’S 1380 Mt. Jefferson Rd. West Jefferson (336) 246-2594

ROSEBUD BAKERY 102 N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 846-3333

WEST JEFFERSON COFFEE HOUSE 208 Backstreet West Jefferson (336) 846-3873

SHOKUDO JAPANESE SEAFOOD 920 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson (336) 246-6999

WHEN PIGS FLY BBQ AND WINGS 247 Mt. Jefferson Rd. West Jefferson (336) 846-4747

West Jefferson My Hometown

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August 25, 2016

ASHE COUNTY

SCHOOLS RULE

ASHE COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL

Schools are an essential step in crafting young minds into the leaders of tomorrow PHOTOS BY ERIK HOFFMANN

BY ERIK HOFFMANN erik.hoffmann@mountaintimes.com

T

hroughout Ashe County, there are six educational institutions with one consolidated goal: provide children with the finest education possible.

Ashe County Schools Superintendent Phyllis Yates is responsible for the day-to-day operations for Ashe County High School, Ashe County Middle School, Blue Ridge Elementary School, Mountain View Elementary School, Westwood Elementary School and the Ashe Early Learning Center.

The Ashe Early Learning Center is a public prekindergarten school program that provides children with a developmental education, preparing its students with all the tools needed to start the public education experience.

AELC is located at 406 School Ave., West Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 846-3221.

Blue Ridge Elementary School, home of the Mountaineers, is home to students in grades kindergarten to sixth.

Callie Grub is the school’s principal.

BRES is a “Leader in Me” school, which teaches 21st century leadership and life skills to students and creates a culture of student empowerment based on the idea that every child can be a leader, according to www.theleaderinme.org.

BRES is located at 5778 N.C. Highway 88 West, Warrensville.

THE ASHE EARLY LEARNING CENTER

For more information, call (336) 384-4500.

Mountain View Elementary School, home of the Eagles, also teaches children in grades kindergarten through

sixth. David Blackburn is the school’s principal.

MVES was named a North Carolina School of Distinction SCHOOLS – Continued on Page 7

West Jefferson My Hometown

August 25, 2016

Page 7

BLUE RIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

WESTWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PHOTOS BY ERIK HOFFMANN

MOUNTAIN VIEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

SCHOOLS FROM PAGE 6 for the 2011-2012 school year and received the Exemplary School Award for the 20132014 school year. The school’s motto is, “What ever it takes. Our kids are worth it,” according to www.mountainview.ashe.k12. nc.us.

MVES is located at 2789 U.S. Highway 221 North, Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 982-4200.

Westwood Elementary School, home of the Timberwolves, teaches grades kin-

dergarten through sixth, as well. Jennifer Robinson is the school’s principal.

According to www.westwood.ashe.k12. nc.us, the school’s vision, “through collaborative efforts of administrators, educators, students, staff and stakeholders, is to create a child-centered environment which prepares students for the 21st century.”

WES is located at 4083 U.S. Highway 221 South, West Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 877-2921.

Ashe County Middle School, home of the Bulldogs, houses students in grades seventh and eighth. Dustin Farmer is the school’s principal.

“Serving Ashe County as the oldest firm in the county since 1957.”

Mike Burgess - Owner/Broker Dayna Price - Broker Tammy Howell - Office Manager

Parker&Burgess Realty, Inc.

416 E 2nd St, West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 246-6011 www.parkerburgessrealty.com

ASHE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

In 2015, ACMS received its fourth “Schools to Watch” award for academic excellence, developmental responsiveness, social equality and organization structure and processes. Only six other middle schools across the county have reached that level of success.

In January, former Ashe County Schools Superintendent Todd Holden announced plans for a new middle school to be built. As of August, those plans are progressing.

ACMS is located at 255 Northwest Lane, Warrensville. For more information, call (336) 384-3591.

Ashe County High School, home of

The ole Honey H

the Huskies, teaches students in ninthgrade through twelfth-grade. Jason Krider is the school’s principal.

Built in 1999, ACHS consolidated the preceding high schools, Ashe Central High School, Beaver Creek High School and Northwest Ashe High School. Since then, in 2008, U.S. News and World Report listed ACHS among the top 1,500 public high schools in the nation. More than 18,000 schools were reviewed for this honor.

ACHS is located at 184 Campus Drive, West Jefferson. For more information, call (336) 846-2400.

For more information about Ashe County Schools, visit www.ashe.k112.nc.us.

WHEN IT HAS TO BE PUMPED...

IT’S TOO LATE! “WE ARE YOUR PLUMBING SERVICE AND REPAIR EXPERTS”

Come see our live bee observation hive!

More than a bee store - a unique shopping experience!

Local Honey and others from across the U.S. Exceptional gifts, Everything a beekeeper needs - beginner or expert ...

Honey soaps, Beeswax candles, Jewelry & much more

6 N. Third Ave • In Historic Downtown West Jefferson (walk down the road across from the Parkway Theater & we are a short distance on the right)

Open Tuesday - Saturday 10-ish to 5 (336) 846-BEES • www.the-honey-hole.com

PUMP SERVICE

Serving Ashe, Watauga, Avery & Alleghany EMERGENCY SERVICE - 24 HOURS

336.462.3364 336.982.DOBY(3629) www.PlumbingWestJefferson.com

West Jefferson My Hometown

Page 8

August 25, 2016

Medical services expand in Ashe County

BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com

T

here are still folks in West Jefferson who remember the opening day of Ashe Memorial Hospital on Nov. 1,

1941.

According to Janet Pittard, author of “A Hospital for Ashe County: Four Generations of Appalachian Community Health Care,” the story of how the community came together to build Ashe Memorial following the Great Depression, weather disasters and a looming World War II is one of determination from a small community.

Ashe Memorial Hospital has grown during the past 75 years, adding new services for its clientele. In the last few years, AMH has added oncology, cardiology, geriatrics, orthopedics and pediatrics services and an ear, nose and throat doctor.

More recently, AMH is undergoing a renovation in its emergency department.

The renovations will add approximately 2,400 square feet to the emergency department, bringing the ED up to 7,420 square feet.

The renovations will also add five new rooms to treat patients, bringing total ED rooms to 12.

According to AMH Chief Operating Officer

PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL

Ashe Memorial Hospital is located at 200 Hospital Ave., Jefferson.

Joe Thore, the ED renovation project is being divided into two phases in order to keep the department running smoothly during construction.

But for Ashe Memorial, the number of services isn’t the only thing that’s grown – so has the quality.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services released its Overall Hospital Quality Star Ratings on July 27, and Ashe Memorial Hospital received an overall four-star rating

for the second year.

According to information from Ashe Memorial Hospital/Marketing Director Patty Parsons, only 20 percent of hospitals received a four-star rating nationally and only 2 percent received a five-star rating.

“Ashe Memorial’s results are the outcome of efforts of our entire team working together to provide a remarkable experience for each and every patient,” said Laura Lambeth, chief executive officer of Ashe Memorial Hospital. “I am proud to be a part of a hospital where patients are treated like family.”

According to Parsons, the star ratings were first introduced in 2015 on Hospital Compare, the agency’s public information website, to make it easier for consumers to choose a hospital and understand the quality of care it delivers.

HCAHPS have been in use since 2006 to measure patients’ perspective of hospital care and includes the following topics: •How well nurses and doctors communicated with patients.

•How responsive hospital staff was to patient needs.

•How clean and quiet hospital environments were.

•How well patients were prepared for post-hospital settings.

Ashe Memorial Hospital ranked the same as the national average in mortality rates and readmission and above average in patient experience.

Mountain Hearts Fitness Center, located at Ashe Memorial at 200 Hospital Ave. in Jefferson, offers an indoor pool and a full gym with aerobic and weight-training equipment.

The center also offers a variety of exercise classes and personal training options, a majority of which are offered with a pay-perclass option.

Classes include land aerobics, step dance, water aerobics, swimming lessons, zumba and tai chi.

In addition to Ashe Memorial Hospital, Ashe County has several medical services available for those in need, including:

ASHE COUNTY FREE MEDICAL CLINIC 105 East Main St. Jefferson, N.C. 28640 (336) 846-4649 ASHE MEDICAL ASSOCIATES 151 Medical Park Drive, Jefferson, N.C. 28640 (336) 246-7161 ASHE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL 200 Hospital Ave. Jefferson, N.C. 28640 (336) 846-7101 ASHE WOMEN’S CENTER 420 East 2nd St. West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (336) 846-6246 ASHE PEDIATRICS 303 E. 2nd St. West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (336) 846-4543 HIGH COUNTRY FAMILY MEDICINE 200 Hospital Ave. #7 Jefferson, N.C. 28640 (336) 846-7238 MOUNTAIN FAMILY CARE CENTER 200 Hospital Ave. Jefferson, N.C. 28640 (336) 846-6322 WILMA VANNOY BIRTHING CENTER 200 Hospital Ave. Jefferson, N.C. 28640 (336) 846-0734

August 25, 2016

West Jefferson My Hometown

Page 9

The beauty that is the West Jefferson art district

BY ERIK HOFFMANN erik.hoffmann@mountaintimes.com

M

any places across North Carolina have one particular thing associated with it.

Raleigh is known as the state’s capital.

Charlotte is known as the financial center of the state.

The Outer Banks are known for beautiful sunrises.

West Jefferson, not to be outdone, is quickly becoming an arts mecca in North Carolina.

The Ashe County Arts Council and the Florence Thomas Art School are the pillars of which artists ply and/or display their masterpieces for all to enjoy through many gallery exhibits and art programs.

Starting in 1977, the ACAC focused on promoting the arts to the people of Ashe County and its visitors. Today, it maintains that focus, adding along the way artistic mediums not traditionally thought of, including the culinary and theatrical arts.

GALLERY CRAWLS From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on every second Friday of the month from June to October, the streets of West Jefferson bustle with activity, thanks in part to West Jefferson’s Gallery Crawl, sponsored by the ACAC. Art galleries and restaurants open their doors and let forth their creativity, inviting one and all to experience the arts through their own interpretation.

In 2016, 17 galleries are participating in the crawls. Some of those galleries are holding special events during the crawls to highlight specific artists or mediums. Some works of art are for display only, while others are available for purchase. Some galleries may host musical acts, while other musicians might display their talents along the walkways of West Jefferson.

Many different mediums of art can be seen throughout the gallery crawls including, painting, sculpting, quilting, photography and more.

The Gallery Crawls are free and open to the public and are sponsored by the ACAC in cooperation with the West Jefferson Business Association, the West Jefferson Tourism Development Authority and is funded, in part, through a grassroots arts program grant of the North Carolina Arts Council.

MURALS West Jefferson’s first mural was commissioned in 1996 by McFarland and Company Inc. Publishing. Local artist Jack Young created “History of Ashe Through the Ages” on the Regency Properties building next to the Ashe Arts Center.

Young’s mural, however, was painted over on July 18, 2016. His work, though, has been an inspiration to many artists

PHOTO BY ERIK HOFFMANN

Stephan Shoemaker’s ‘Cut at Devil Stairs’ has been a mainstay in West Jefferson’s art district since 2001. throughout the region. complete, with more that 125 volunteers “Spring Wildflowers on Mt. Jefferson,” contributing to the project. Artists Raines painted by Robert Johnson, provides a Thompson and Earle Klutz Thompson led glimpse of Mt. Jefferson, views of the cliffs to project to completion. and foliage from atop Mylet contributed the mountain and a to another West Jefnice close-up view of ferson mural, this spring wildflowers. time with the help of Johnson created his Ashe County Middle mural in 1998.

School students.

Also in 1998, artist “Unity in DiverMarianne DiNapoli sity” is located on the Mylet created “New Boondocks Brewing River Traditions,” LLC building and which features scenes was created as part from Ashe County’s of an Arts in Educapast and present, tion Residency Grant along with two funded by the North musicians playing Carolina Arts Countraditional mountain cil. The mural was music instruments. created to reflect the Other murals that The Arts on Fire project and painted pedlandscape of Ashe can be seen through- estals are seen throughout various spots in County, the music out West Jefferson West Jefferson, each with its own personality and the people who influenced by local and regional artists. include Stephen live and work here.

Shoemaker’s “Cut at The words unity, Devil Stairs” and R. T. Morgan’s “Somediversity, peace and tolerance are written where in Ashe.” in Spanish and border the mural design.

The “Wings and Things” mural, found on Students, along with volunteers from the the Ashe County Cheese’s plant producLatino Center, painted the mural on fabric tion building, was a collaborative effort of panels that were adhered to the wall. The the North Carolina Museum of Art, Ashe project was sponsored by Handmade in County High School’s Project 540 and America, the West Jefferson Community the ACAC. The mural took three days to Partnership and the ACAC.

ARTS ON FIRE Fire hydrants are traditionally painted either yellow or red and are used primarily as a water source in the event of a fire.

But, West Jefferson decided in 2007 to turn something drab and boring into something interesting and beautiful with the decoration of town fire hydrants.

Each painted fire hydrant was designed and created by local and regional artists to be unique in character.

Passersby can also see painted concrete blocks up and down the streets of West Jefferson depicting the lush greenery and wildflowers found in the area.

BARN QUILTS HandMade in America got together with the ACAC in 2005 and created the first barn quilt for Ashe County.

A barn quilt is a painted quilt pattern on an exterior-grade signboard, which is attached to the side of a barn or farm outbuilding.

Initially, the idea to bring barn quilts to the area began as part of the Ashe Arts Barn Quilt Project, which recognizes quilts as symbols of comfort and family. The project’s goal is to create visual images of Ashe County and what it represents.

Since its inception, more than 200 barn quilts can be seen throughout Ashe County.

ARTS – Continued on Page 10

West Jefferson My Hometown

Page 10

August 25, 2016

ARTS FROM PAGE 9 Ashe County features six loop trails featuring barn quilts. Anyone interested in driving the loop trails can view the maps online at www.ashecountyarts.org/barn-quilts. Additional information can also be picked up at the Ashe Arts Center in West Jefferson.

Throughout the year, the ACAC offers guided barn quilt tours. These two-hour journeys through Ashe County come complete with a narrating tour guide telling the stories behind the quilts.

For more information about the ACAC or the Ashe Arts Center, visit www.ashecountyarts.org or call (336) 846-2787.

FLORENCE THOMAS ART SCHOOL The Florence Thomas Art School is a nonprofit art school in West Jefferson dedicated to providing resources for instruction, exhibition and experience in the fine arts and heritage crafts for the region.

The school is named after Florence Thomas, who was born in Ashe County in 1909.

Instructors and artists who run the school hope to preserve the Florence Thomas legacy. Thomas’ work was of an impressionistic style. She used to teach painting in her basement for 20 years.

She helped form the Blue Ridge Art Clan to pool resources to bring teachers to the county so her students could continue having their work critiqued.

C

F U N E R A L

PHOTO BY ERIK HOFFMANN

Decorated fire hydrants adorn West Jefferson.

Thomas died March 30, 2007, at 98 years old.

Today, workshops are held at the school, allowing artists of all ages to learn and create works of art from watercolor paintings to pastels to botanical collages.

For more information about the school, visit www.florenceartschool.org or call (336) 846-3827.

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West Jefferson My Hometown

August 25, 2016

West Jefferson investing in

TODAY AND TOMORROW

BY JAMES HOWELL

james.howell@mountaintimes.com

I

n order to accommodate growing visitation and traffic, the town of West Jefferson has taken the initiative to make a few additions in town.

RESTROOMS New public restrooms were established at a former vacant lot located at 106 South Jefferson Ave., and opened on May 28.

The new bathroom facility contains separate rooms for males and females; the male

restroom offers users two urinals, two stalls and two sinks and the female restrooms contain four stalls and two sinks.

The restrooms’ construction was headed up by Boone-based Greene Construction.

The West Jefferson Board of Aldermen unanimously approved the $166,721 contract to Greene Construction on March 7.

According to West Jefferson Town Manager Brantley Price, West Jefferson has needed public restrooms for a while, but that need has become even more pronounced during the last year, as foot traffic has increased IMPROVEMENTS – Continued on Page 12

Page 11

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West Jefferson My Hometown

Page 12

August 25, 2016 people going to town, we benefit from it as much as the town of West Jefferson does,” said Ashe County Commissioner Gary Roark. “We’ve got to look at what benefits the county as a whole.”

In October 2014, additional parking was also added at the old tennis courts behind Badgers Funeral Home.

IMPROVEMENTS FROM PAGE 11 throughout town, especially on weekends.

“Restaurants can’t just open their doors to everyone. We get a lot of visitors walking the streets of West Jefferson,” Price said. “The chamber, they’ve got one restroom, so they get overloaded, we have people coming in here (town hall) all the time, and merchants don’t like to open up their restrooms for the people on the streets.”

According to Ashe County Chamber of Commerce Director Cabot Hamilton, adding public restrooms in West Jefferson will be a big benefit to the town, both for merchants and visitors.

“It’s something the town has needed for a long time,” Hamilton said. “I think it’ll be a definite plus all the way around.”

In line with the county’s art aesthetic, artwork may be added to the outside of the new public restrooms in the future.

PARKING To help alleviate the congested parking issue throughout the town, a new 70-space parking lot was completed in West Jefferson on May 2.

The new parking lot sits between Ashe County Cheese and the old Sears building

PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL

Nancy Zoppi and Scot Pope play music along the sidewalk in West Jefferson, while area residents and visitors listen. The area where the couple is playing was added during a recent streetscape project. in West Jefferson. According to Price, the total cost of the project was $213,000, including land acquisition, paving, lining and making a storm drain.

Price, along with West Jefferson Mayor Dale Baldwin, visited an Ashe County Board of Commissioners meeting on May 2, requesting assistance to pay for the

new parking lot.

After Price completed his presentation to the board, a motion to fund the new parking lot in West Jefferson in the amount of $60,000 was approved in a 4-1 vote.

“You’ve got to realize that for every dollar that’s spent in West Jefferson by

STREETSCAPING During the past decade, the town of West Jefferson has undergone a facelift, also called the “streetscape project.”

As part of the project, the town’s traffic lights have been replaced by four-way stop signs, effectively ridding the town of overhanging wires. Also, new streetlights, benches and crosswalks were added in town, making West Jefferson much easier for pedestrians to navigate.

The last leg of the streetscape project was completed this summer, when the town removed the last traffic light located at the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and Second Street at Tri County Monuments.

Due to the town’s progressive redesigns, West Jefferson has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2013 North Carolina Small Town Main Street Award.

Also, the leadership from several towns across North Carolina visited West Jefferson in recent years to get some ideas for restoring their own towns.

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West Jefferson My Hometown

Page 13

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CAROLINA FRASER FIR CO., LLC (276) 579-7733 516 Aubrey Turner Road Crumpler, NC 28617 cherie.shatley@carolinafraser.com www.carolinafraser.com

BIG MEADOW MOUNTAIN NURSERY (919) 787-1929 19201A Highway 88W Creston, NC 28615 tri@ipass.net

CHEEK BROTHERS TREE FARM (336)-877-7323 3405 NC Hwy 88E. Jefferson, NC 28640 cheekevergreens@gmail.com www.cheekfraser.com

TREES – Continued on Page 14

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Christmas Tree farms dot THE ASHE COUNTY landscape PHOTO BY JAMES HOWEL HOWELL

This is the winner of the People’s Choice Award, a tree from Hart-T Tree Farms, after being selected as the best tree during the 2016 Christmas in July festival.

BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com

A

she County has grown to become one of the top Christmas tree producers in the world, and more area residents and visitors are coming to West Jefferson to take advantage of the holiday opportunity.

West Jefferson saw a major boost in traffic on Small Business Saturday last year, and a major reason for the uptick in traffic was due to the choose-and-cut Christmas tree industry.

Several visitors traveled to West Jefferson from downstate to spend the day visiting local tree farms to pick that perfect tree to take home to the family.

Since 1986, the town has actively promoted local Christmas trees with the Christmas in July festival, boosting traffic for both the town and local farms.

This year, a special competition was held for members of the Ashe County Christmas Tree Association, called the “People’s Choice Award.” This year’s winning tree was submitted by Hart-T Tree Farms and was selected by attendees of the festival.

The second place tree was submitted by Waylan’s Nursery and the third place tree came from Sturgill Tree Farm.

“The Christmas in July People’s Choice tree competition is an opportunity for festival attendees to pick their favorite Christmas tree, and for growers to observe what customers look for in their version of the ‘perfect’ tree,” said Agricultural Extension Agent Travis Birdsell. “Not to mention, it is a great conversation starter for talking about Christmas in

July.”

According to information from the Christmas Tree Association, real trees are superior to artificial trees in several ways.

Christmas trees are 100 percent biodegradable and recyclable, and one acre of Christmas trees produce the daily oxygen requirements for 18 people.

Also, Christmas trees help remove excessive carbon dioxide and other gases from the atmosphere, which are contributing to the “green house effect,” according to the association.

In addition, Christmas trees are adaptable, growing on marginal lands that are unsuitable for any other crop, the group said.

The Ashe County Christmas Tree Association is an association of family farmers that specializes in growing the Fraser fir, also known as the “Cadillac of Christmas Trees.”

The Fraser fir is highly prized all around the country because of its aroma, shape, dark green color, excellent needle retention and strong branches capable of carrying heavy ornaments, according to the Christmas Tree Association.

Association members also grow a wide variety of other Christmas tree species, nursery stock and B&B stock, along with making and shipping wreaths and garland.

Other association members operate chooseand-cut farms that families from all over the South visit to get their yearly Christmas tree.

For more information on the Ashe County Christmas Tree Association, call the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Ashe Center, at (336) 846-5850 or email info@ashechristmastrees. com.

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West Jefferson My Hometown

Page 14

Grassy Creek, NC 28631 shfishel@gmail.com grouseridgetrees.com

FERNWOOD FARM

TREES

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FROM PAGE 13 CLARK’S EVERGREEN AND LANDSCAPING (336) 877-7615 PO Box 1076 Jefferson, NC 28640 clarksevergreens@yahoo.com

CLINE CHURCH NURSERY (336) 877-4237 160 Hewed Log Gap Road Fleetwood, NC 28626 ccnsy@skybest.com clinechurchnursery.com

CRESTON NURSERY (919) 792-8733 10508 Simtree Court Raleigh, NC 27615 crestonnursery@gmail.com

CROP PRODUCTION SERVICES (336) 846-3339 PO Box 1716 Jefferson, NC 28640 scott.henson@cpsagu.com

DAVIS TREE FARM (336) 957-7265 1620 Piney Creek Road Lansing, NC 28643 davisnc@skybest.com

HART POWER EQUIPMENT INC.

FOGGY MOUNTAIN NURSERY (336) 384-5323 2251 Ed Little Road Creston, NC 28615 foggymtn@skybest.com foggymtn.com

HART-T-TREE FARMS

FRASER KNOLL (336) 982-3517 610 Burnt Hill Rd Laurel Springs, NC 28644 sales@fraserknoll.com fraserknoll.com

FURCHES EVERGREENS INC (336) 246-7422 PO Box 62 West Jefferson, NC 28694 sales@furchesevergreens.com furchesevergreens.com

(336) 877-6625 PO Box 114 Creston, NC 28615 info@radonbusters.net

(336) 384-9603 PO Box 35 Grassy Creek, NC 28631 wholesale@hart-t-trees.com hart-t-trees.com

HARTZOG FARMS (336) 977-6705 4233 Hartzog Ford Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 cdhartzog@skybest.com

(336) 846-7936 567 Inspiration Way West Jefferson, NC 28694 leestrees@skybest.com

(336) 246-4344 PO Box 26 West Jefferson, NC 28694 mlittle@golifestore.com golifestore.com

(336) 846-3352 PO Box 519 Jefferson, NC 28640 hermansurvey@skybest.com

(336) 337-8373 PO Box 152 Jefferson, NC 28640 mnms@embarqmail.com

(336) 877-2672 160 Hewed Log Gap Road Fleetwood, NC 28626 info@greenscapetools.com GreenscapeTools.com

GROUSE RIDGE CHRISTMAS TREES (336) 384-3337 14911 Old Hwy 16

HONEYCUTT CHRISTMAS TREES (336) 982-3272 173 Hidden Spring Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 khoneycuttmk@skybest.com facebook.com/ HoneycuttChristmasTrees

HUDLER TREE FARM LLC (336) 846-8627 PO Box 444 West Jefferson, NC 28694 hudlertreefarm@skybest.com hudlertreefarm.net

PEAK FARMS

(336) 982-6285 644 Roy Goodman Road Crumpler, NC 28617 info@mountainadvantagellc.com mountainadvantagellc.com

(336) 982-6082 1011 Low Gap Road Jefferson, NC 28640 russellpf2@skybest.com peakfarms.com

MOUNTAIN MEMORIES

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(336) 877-0170 252 Rocky Gap Road West Jefferson, NC 28694

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NAKED RIDGE TREE FARM LIL’ GRANDFATHER CHOOSE & CUT (336) 372-9613 15371 NC HWY 18 South Laurel Springs, NC 28644 info@lilgrand.com lilgrand.com

LONG’S TREE FARM HERMAN TREE FARM

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GARDNER TREE FARMS

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DIXIE FRASER FIR CO LLC

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LEE’S TREES

August 25, 2016

LYALLS NURSERY (336) 977-0067 238 Mt Valley Drive West Jefferson, NC 28694 lyallstrees@skybest.com lyallstrees.com

MISTLETOE MEADOWS CHRISTMAS TREES (336) 982-9754 583 Burnt Hill Rd. Laurel Springs, NC 28644 mistletoem@skybest.com mistletoemeadows.com

(336) 977-0670 1316 Carson Woods Road Laurel Springs, NC 28644 rsgoodman@skybest.com www.nakedridgetreefarm.com

NEW RIVER TREE CO INC.

RICHARD WOODIE TREE FARMS PO Box 524 Sparta, NC 28675 rwoodie@hotmail.com rwtreefarm.com

RICHARDSON TREE FARM

(336) 846-2035 PO Box 846 West Jefferson, NC 28694 newrvertree@skybest.com

(336) 977-2109 235 Colvard Farm Road Jefferson, NC 28640

RICK’S EVERGREENS OMNI FARM (336) 982-3475 1369 Calloway Gap Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 omnifarm@omnifarm.com www.omnifarm.com

PARSONS FARMS & SUPPLY (336) 246-4359 PO Box 389 West Jefferson, NC 28694 parsonsfarms@skybest.com

(336) 846-3339 4106 Old Field Creek Road Grassy Creek, NC 28631 ricknjane@skybest.com

RIVER RIDGE FARMS (336) 982-3953 8539 US Hwy 221 N Crumpler, NC 28617 rrfarms@skybest.com riverridgetreefarms.com

RRR LAUREL KNOB TREE FARM PATE’S TREE FARM (276) 677-3530 PO Box 38 Glendale Springs, NC 28629 patesfarming@gmail.com

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TREES – Continued on Page 15

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West Jefferson My Hometown

August 25, 2016

Page 15

Around Town for a shopping perspective

BY ERIK HOFFMANN erik.hoffmann@mountaintimes.com

S

ure, the big nationwide retail chain stores get all the attention, and some of their prices may be a bit lower, but there is no amount of pennies saved worth sacrificing the individualized customer service found in locally owned businesses.

As the town of West Jefferson continues to grow, so do the opportunities for shoppers to find local goods sold by local people who contribute to the town’s growth.

“The quality of the items is a lot better than what you’d find in the big box stores,” said Wesley Barker, West Jefferson town clerk. “By shopping locally, you’re also supporting your local community and supporting your neighbors and friends here in the county. That’s something important to do. If we didn’t have local businesses, we wouldn’t have anything in the town.”

“It feels a little bit more like home,” said Anna Spatola of Fort Mills, S.C. “Like a family, and you’re actually helping someone you could actually know. I could talk to shop

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TREES FROM PAGE 14 SEVERT’S TREE FARM (276) 768-9001 Ore Knob Manor Road Laurel Springs, NC 28644 buyatree@severtstreefarm.com www.severtstreefarm.com

SEXTON CHRISTMAS TREE FARMS (336) 246-8494 PO Box 1235 Jefferson, NC 28640 sextonfarms@skybest.com sextonchristmastrees.com

SHADY REST TREE FARM (336) 977-1659 287 Trading Post Road

SHATLEY FARMS, LLC (336) 982-9462 3509 US Hwy 221 North Jefferson, NC 28640 shatleyfarms@skybest.com www.shatleyfarms.com

SMOKEY HOLLER TREE FARM LLC (336) 372-2756 3452 Meadowfork Road Laurel Springs, NC 28644 smokeyholler@skybest.com smokeyhollertreefarm.com

STURGILL TREE FARMS 336-246-4343 1344 NC Hwy 88 W West Jefferson, NC 28694 trees@sturgillstreefarms.com sturgillstreefarms.com

owners versus somebody at a big retail store.

I’m not going to have a sit-down cup of coffee with them, but I could with the small business owner. It doesn’t feel as rushed or as busy. It’s more fun.”

Rather than going from isle to isle to maybe find close to what they are looking for, shoppers can be seen going from store to store looking for specific items in each shop. For example, The Honey Hole specializes in local honey, honey-made products and beekeeping equipment. The Hobby Barn is filled with model airplanes, cars, toys

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TERRY GOSS CHRISTMAS TREES (336) 877-0601 PO Box 728 West Jefferson, NC 28694 goss-trees@gmail.com gosstrees.com

WEST END WREATHS

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SHOPPING – Continued on Page 16

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SUNNYSIDE TREES (336) 982-9235 436 Sunnyside Park Road Jefferson, NC 28640 LarryElliott436@gmail.com sunnysidetrees.com

and more. The Happy Shack has an eclectic collection of art, furniture, garden decorations and more.

“There are many things you’re not going to find at the big stores as far as items, gifts, presents, whatever, but you’re also not going to find the friendliness and the compassion for their store and actually care about the community and county as a whole and each other,” Barker added. “I’ve been in stores where if they don’t have something you’re

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West Jefferson My Hometown

Page 16

August 25, 2016 MOUNTAIN VIEW TV CENTER

SHOP

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FROM PAGE 15

PAM’S UNIQUE BOUTIQUE 105 North Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1651

here does work together.

It’s much more personable.

They know the people by name. They do everything they can to help you. If they don’t have something you need, they’ll try their best to get it for you. It’s much more friendly.”

PAST AND PRESENT ANTIQUES 113 North Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-3311

PEEK-A-BOUTIQUE 106 S. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-5437

PEOPLE’S REXALL DRUG 423 E. 2nd St. (336) 246-9990

APPALACHIAN FLOORING & TILE 422 E. 2nd St. #1 (336) 246-2008

PERRY’S GOLD MINE 4 North Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-2274

ANTIQUES ON MAIN 842 South Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1231

ART OF OIL 110 S Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-4411

ASHE COUNTY CHEESE 106 E. Main St (336) 246-2501

ASHE COUNTY FORD 409 E. 2nd St. (336) 246-7183

BACKSTREET BEADS AND HANDCRAFTED JEWELRY 111 North Jefferson Ave. (336) 877-7686

PHOTO BY ERIK HOFFMAN

The Honey Hole offers honeymade products, beekeeping equipment and quality local honey.

BROWSE ABOUT BOOK EXCHANGE 3-A North Jefferson Ave. (336) 246-3502

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FRIENDLY SHOE STORE THE CABIN STORE 1101 South Jefferson Ave. (336) 246-5647

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GRANDMA’S PLACE CAROLINA COUNTRY WINES 7 North Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-4848 118 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1551

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MOUNTAIN OUTFITTERS 14 S. Jefferson Ave (336) 246-9133

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RT MORGAN ART GALLERY 120 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 246-3328

RAILROAD PAWN LLC 109 Backstreet (336) 246-3836

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SHOP – Continued on Page 17

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West Jefferson My Hometown

August 25, 2016

Page 17

Festivals of festivities for all

BY ERIK HOFFMANN erik.hoffmann@mountaintimes.com

W

est Jefferson is the epicenter of most activity throughout Ashe County. So, it stands to reason some of the most popular festivals throughout the state take place on the streets of West Jefferson.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY FESTIVAL By far, the grandest festival of all, Christmas in July packs the streets of West Jefferson annually with food, music, local arts, street performers and more.

Initially started in 1987 as a way to entice businesses to purchase Christmas trees for the pending holiday, Christmas in July has grown to showcase not only Christmas trees, but also what the entire region has to offer.

“It’s a great event and a big boost for West Jefferson,” said Congresswoman Virginia Foxx, who has never missed attending a Christmas in July festival. “The food’s great.

The people are great. The shops in West Jefferson are wonderful to visit. It’s become a real art mecca. It’s just a great place to be, especially if you live off the mountain.”

Foxx also said one of the things she looks forward to most is meeting the people who come from all over state and, in some cases, all over the world, just for Christmas in July.

One such person said it is now his mission to never miss a Christmas in July.

“I heard about Christmas in July in the North Pole,” said Kris Kringle, better known as Santa Claus. “I brought along my beautiful wife, Mrs. Claus. We decided to see why in the heat of summer there’s such a thing as Christmas in July. Now that we’ve discovered the happiness and total glee that we see on the faces of children of all ages, we think this is a very good idea. I can’t wait to come back every year.”

To stay informed on the latest Christmas in July information, visit www.christmasinjuly.info.

WEST JEFFERSON OLDE TIME ANTIQUES FAIR There is a certain quaintness when it comes to West Jefferson; a sense of familiarity that can be told through the people and items found during the West Jefferson Olde Time Antiques Fair in downtown West Jef-

SHOP FROM PAGE 16 SCARLETT CREEK 9 East Main St. (336) 846-3777

PHOTO BY ERIK HOFFMANN

West Jefferson’s Christmas in July festival brings people together for food, music, a festival atmosphere and a holiday spirit that can be found only in West Jefferson. ferson.

Beginning in September 2012, the West Jefferson Olde Time Antiques Fair offers a variety of vintage signage, furniture, coins, quilts pottery, metals and more. Fair organizer Keith Woodie said every good fair needs a little flair to make it great.

“Last year’s antiques fair was bigger than ever, so I think it’s grown a considerable amount,” said Woodie. “Over the last four years, we’ve had a lot of impersonators; Elvis impersonators and this and that. Last year, we got Arvill Scott to take over the entertainment and he brought in country music bands and bluegrass bands. He’s doing that again this year because it was a big hit.”

What would a fair be without good, oldfashioned fair food? Funnel cakes, kettle corn and other fair favorites fill the air with aromas anyone would find difficult to resist.

The 2016 West Jefferson Olde Time Antiques Fair is set for Sept. 16 and 17.

For more information about the West Jefferson Olde Time Antiques Fair, visit www. wjantiquesfair.com.

ART ON THE MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL Combining West Jefferson’s art district together with local history, the Ashe County Arts Council showcases artists of all talents during the Art on the Mountain Festival.

The festival started in 1992 as a selfdriving tour of studios around Ashe County, coinciding with Art on the Side, a sidewalk art festival at the Ashe County Arts Center.

Officially becoming Art on the Mountain

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ON THE SAME PAGE LITERARY FESTIVAL To better celebrate the 2008-2009 expansion of the Ashe County Public Library

Dear People of Ashe County, First of all, I just want to say thanks for the warm welcome that my husband and I have received since coming to your community almost 4 years ago. When we bought People’s Drug, we wanted to make sure that we kept it a very personal, warm, and friendly place for your prescription needs. While keeping our eyes on the past, we also wanted to keep our vision on the future; that is why we have introduced services like Immunizations and Compounding; services that were not previously offered by community pharmacies in Ashe.

We have updated our product offerings as well as our actual building.

We created a partnership with Ashe County High School to be an outlet for Husky Merchandise, with all proceeds going to the ACHS Booster Club. We are doing these things and more because we are in it for the long haul here in Ashe.

And remember, the dollars you spend at Peoples Drug, stays local to benefit things like: Little League, Soccer Teams, Heart Foundation, Project GraduaGradua tion and various other charities.

We even have an awesome restaurant named Louise's Sweet T Café for you to experience. So if you still haven't given the new Peoples Drug a try, we cordially invite you to stop in today!

Sincerely, Aletha Eller

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in 2010, the festival combined the two older festivals and has grown to become a fine arts and crafts festival everyone can enjoy. The 2016 Art on the Mountain Festival is set for Sept. 24.

For more information about the Art on the Mountain Festival, visit www.ashecountyarts.org.

in West Jefferson, the On the Same Page Literary Festival began with the intention of expanding everyone’s reading experience, regardless of age and interest.

The festival is a celebration of reading, providing an opportunity for authors to share their work and a bit of themselves with readers. It also gives the reader an opportunity to meet and speak with authors and ask questions about their writings.

Budding writers also have a chance to better hone their craft through instructive workshops and hand-on practices.

No literary festival could be complete without select readings of specific passages from authors.

A special theme is attached to each On the Same Page Literary Festival, giving each year a unique feeling. That feeling is typically organic in nature, developing through the people and events that come together for the festival.The 2016 On the Same Page Literary Festival is set for Sept. 13 to 17 with authors Georgann Eubanks, Jeremy Hawkins, Charlie Lovett, Diane Chamberlain, Sarah Shaber, Darnell Arnoult, Kevin Morgan Watson and more scheduled to participate.

For more information about the On the Same Page Literary Festival, visit www.

Onthesamepagefestival.org.

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West Jefferson My Hometown

Page 18

August 25, 2016

Wilkes Community College expanding in Ashe said. “Both of those young ladies are doing well. Once is at Appalachian, and the other one is at Campbell I think.”

Not only did these two enter college as juniors, the two were already used to college level classes.

“That’s what we hear a lot from high school students is they’re used to college classes before they go. They not only earn the credits, but they earn them in an environment that they feel secure in, and can make that transition to college a little easier,” Robinson said.

BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com

A

s Wilkes Community College continues to serve more students in more ways, it is looking to expand into a new facility in Ashe County.

According to Chris Robinson, vice president of Workforce Development and Community Education at WCC, the current student population at the Ashe campus has grown to 450 full-time students (students with 16 credit hours).

“Our student base continues to grow. Five years ago, our student base was exploding.

Now, it’s good steady growth; the kind of growth you like to have,” Robinson said.

“We’re doing our due diligence on sites that have potential for an expansion project.”

Wilkes Community College was founded in Wilkes County in the 1960s and moved to its current location a few years later.

“In the late ’70s, they started to look at opportunities to serve Ashe County and Alleghany County. As a matter of fact, as I understand it, some representatives including a couple commissioners at that time, approached the college about offering

PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL

It’s back to school time, and Ashe County’s high school students will have a unique opportunity to get ahead by taking classes at Wilkes Community College’s Ashe campus. courses,” Robinson said.

After Sara Lee left Ashe County, WCC’s Ashe campus began educating displaced

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workers and experienced a growth spurt; 120 students grew to 200, then 300 and has grown to 450 full-time students.

During its growth, the Ashe campus of WCC became a “full service facility,” meaning students don’t need to travel to the Wilkes campus for educational reasons.

“I have seen our students, the initial students that I’ve worked with, go into positions and take care of their families and responsibilities,” Robinson said. “A great example is Amanda Coldiron, who is the new finance officer for the school system.

Amanda was a dislocated worker from Sara Lee, and she was one of my first advisees on my first day here. She took her two-year degree from us, went to Gardner-Webb University and completed her four-year degree, and now she’s moved into that position.”

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS According to Robinson, about 75 percent of WCC’s student body is made up of “traditional community college students,” who are 18 to 40 year olds looking for an associate’s degree, a transfer degree or job training. Currently, very few students are displaced workers.

About 20 percent of WCC’s Ashe campus is made up of high school students, and according to Robinson, classes for WCC students are an important service for Ashe’s students.

“It’s neat to watch how the high school students grow,” he said.

“Two years ago, we had two seniors from Ashe County High School that were marshals during the Wilkes Community College graduation, based on the number of hours they had earned and their GPAs,” Robinson

ACECHS Another growth spurt is expected at the Ashe campus: the Ashe County Early College High School.

According to Robinson, ACECHS, a joint effort between Wilkes Community College and Ashe County Schools, will allow incoming freshmen to attend an essentially new school where students will take both high school and college classes.

“They would start attending classes here, as ninth-graders. This would be its own separate high school, it wouldn’t be a part of Ashe County High School. It’ll have its own students, its own principal, etc.,” Robinson said. “The first year, students will probably take one or two community college classes, and the next year, they’ll take more, and continue taking more college classes through their junior, senior and maybe a fifth year.”

At the end of four or five years, they’ll graduate with their high school diploma and their associate’s degree, all at no cost to them or their parents, he said.

“Their books, their tuition and everything will be taken care of. What it does is it saves a tremendous amount of money for parents,” Robinson said. “It’s not aimed at students with behavioral issues or anything like that; the student population will be very similar to ACHS.” PROGRAMS Currently, the Ashe campus offers six full degrees, including an associate’s in art (a transfer program), applied engineering, business, accounting, a nursing cohort and human services technology (for social services positions).

Also, the Ashe campus offers the first year of the criminal justice program and offers selective classes in horticulture and welding.

Robinson said he hopes those three programs will be the next to become full degrees.

WCC also offers EMS training for first responders and training for law enforcement officers and local fire departments, and health programs that teach such things as CPR and pharmacy tech.

August 25, 2016

ASHE

West Jefferson My Hometown

Page 19

A draw for those wanting a COUNTY: second home or vacation home

BY JAMES HOWELL james.howell@mountaintimes.com

D

owntown West Jefferson is just one of the many assets in Ashe County that are compelling visitors to settle down in primary or secondary homes, causing a boom in local real estate sales.

According to Kim Hurley, broker-in-charge at Ashe High Country Realty, Ashe County is primarily a vacation and second home market, and many of the new home buys are from visitors.

“The common thing I hear with most of the buyers I work with is they love downtown West Jefferson and they love the friendly people,” Hurley said. “It brings people here and they spend money.”

According to Hurley, sales for Ashe County’s homes, land and commercial real estate increased 38.85 percent (in dollars) since June 2015. Specifically, home sales increased by 46.18 percent during the same period.

“We’re excited, and very busy,” Hurley said about the rise in local real estate sales.

Hurley recently compiled a report demonstrating the number of real estate units sold in Ashe County has increased since 2010, when the local real estate market bottomed out.

Year-end history (Ashe County only): • 2008 — 605 units • 2009 — 341 units • 2010 — 296 units • 2011 — 325 units • 2012 — 398 units • 2013 — 426 units • 2014 — 440 units • 2015 — 455 units

$100,661,027 total sales $57,730,537 total sales $52,625,053 total sales $48,843,552 total sales $61,393,173 total sales $63,968,325 total sales $62,558,164 total sales $74,160,826 total sales

PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL

This home on Church Street overlooks downtown West Jefferson. Several local real estate agencies have full offices and websites for anyone interested in local real estate.

Ashe County Manager Sam Yearick echoed the importance of home construction for Ashe County’s economy, from local builders to suppliers to real estate agents.

“The biggest thing for us is our builders have work,” Yearick said. “A lot of our economy is based on second homes.

Building is up and real estate is up, and that tells us our economy is picking up here is Ashe County.”

For families who are relocating, several real estate options are available near the county’s three elementary schools, middle school and high school. For those who want more privacy, several gated communities are spread throughout the county, and beautiful homes dot the often secluded

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Not all visitors are interested in relocating or buying a second home. Instead, many prefer to stay in local hotels, cabins or bed and breakfasts, and there are many to choose from.

It’s easy to understand why visitors from flock to Ashe County, and often to West Jefferson specifically.

With an elevation of 3,000 feet above sea level, West Jefferson provides visitors with a cooler alternative than locations “off the mountain.” While the summers are cooler, winters are white and the autumn leaves are beautiful.

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West Jefferson My Hometown

Page 20

August 25, 2016

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